Of all the grand roundabouts that punctuate the Paseo del Prado, Plaza de Cibeles most evokes the splendor of imperial Madrid. The jewel in the crown is the astonishing CentroCentro. Other landmark buildings around the plaza’s perimeter include the Palacio de Linares, the Palacio Buenavista and the national Banco de España. The spectacular fountain of the goddess Cybele at the center of the plaza is one of Madrid’s most beautiful.
Ever since it was erected by Ventura Rodríguez in 1780, the fountain has been a Madrid favorite. Carlos III liked it so much he tried to have it moved to the royal gardens of the Granja de San Ildefonso, on the road to Segovia, but madrileños kicked up such a fuss that he let it be.
There are fine views east from Plaza de la Cibeles towards the Puerta de Alcalá or, even better, west towards the Edificio Metrópolis.
